Forepart of a recumbent lion
2960–2770 B.C.
FindspotPossibly Gebelein, Egypt
Medium/TechniqueAndesite porphyry
DimensionsHeight x length: 13 x 13 cm (5 1/8 x 5 1/8 in.)
Credit LineEgyptian Special Purchase Fund
Accession number1980.73
On View
On viewClassificationsSculpture
Collections
This small yet imposing lion, is carved of hard andesite porphyry, a material otherwise known primarily in stone vessels, suggesting that the artist or his workshop may have emerged from that tradition. Figures of animals such as this one were probably dedicated as votive offerings in temples. Like other lion figures of the period, he is crouched as if about to spring, with his snout curled back in a snarl. The tail lies flat against the lion's back, and the curving tip remains visible behind the line of the mane.
ProvenancePossibly from Gebelein. By 1980: with Edward H. Merrin Gallery, New York; 1980: purchased by the MFA from the Edward H. Merrin Gallery, New York.
(Accession Date: March 1, 1980)
(Accession Date: March 1, 1980)
3100–2800 B.C.
270 B.C.–A.D. 320
10th–9th century B.C.
10th–9th century B.C.
9th–early 10th century A.D.
9th century A.D.
9th century
9th century